by Emmy Kirkham
The New Prairie High School Indoor Percussion placed second place in the state competition on March 16, 2019.
The ensemble made it to state last season and they were sixth. Freshman Jacen Rea said a few contributing factors to their improvement were the staff and the techs.
“This year our techs have stood out,” explained Rea. “I’ve personally spoken to other members and they have also said that the techs we had this year are outstanding.”
Many of the members of tech are members of a professional Winter Guard International (WGI) group called 317, which has been a great influence for the ensemble to work harder and improve.
Rea also mentioned that the section leaders have been an inspiration to the other members of the ensemble. The leaders designed the show this season and have even inspired members to design shows of their own.
“Our 2019 show ‘King of Kings’ is far more advanced than anything we have ever done which is due in most part to our incredible staff,” said senior Olivia Adnson.
Junior Dylan Liggett said the ensemble had a lot of rookies and it really surprised everyone to see the amount of growth that occurred throughout the season.
“It definitely blew everyone out of the water,” explained Liggett. “We’re all very proud of each other.”
Throughout the season, the ensemble had become a family. Rea explained how all the members would be there for him or anyone else.
“I know for a fact that if I contact anyone in the ensemble, they will respond. They would be there for me,” said Rea. “No matter what, we always got through the issue at hand.”
Following their best season, there are high expectations for next season. There a very few seniors graduating from the ensemble this year and there are many eighth graders coming into the high school band.
“Now I think we have reached that place of professionalism, skill, and drive and I can’t wait to see how far New Prairie Indoor Percussion goes,” said Adnson. “I think all will see soon enough how indoor percussion could bring New Prairie to the world stage of music.”
The ensemble practiced four days a week, starting in December to help perfect their performance.
Rea explained how the ensemble has the ability and work ethic to place first at the state competition in future years. He also mentioned how the current juniors are phenomenal percussionists and musicians.
“Next year, our current juniors will be driven to finish out their outdoor careers with a bang,” said Rea.
Adnson stated it is impossible to pick one singular part of indoor as her favorite. She enjoyed performing the music, interpreting the shows message, and sharing a unique camaraderie with the members.
“It’s definitely a growing ensemble that’s only 3 years old, but we are all proud to represent New Prairie Bands and school corporation with our tremendous growth and achievement,” said Liggett.
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